Algerian Salafists not allowed to enter Tunisia

Tunisian border guards have stepped up surveillance measures on Algerian passengers who have Salafist look. They question them about their destination, the reason behind their visit to Tunisia and people who can be contacted by visitors in the country, Tunisian sources said.

Tunisian interior ministry has recently stepped up security measures on Salafist groups’ action in Tunisia. Tunisian authorities prevented Algerian Salafists under 35 from entering the country. The rest who are more than 5 will have to stay in border centers for hours until they are allowed by central authorities to cross the borders.

This comes as the ministry tightened the noose around Salafist groups in Tunisia.

According to the same sources, the measures were taken following accusation of Salafist groups in Algeria of fuelling conflicts between Salafist trends and Tunisian security forces.

Those new measures are likely to have a negative impact on tourism sector in Tunisia.